Crocus!

It's hard to resist posting early flower photos - not that I need to resist, but they're so ordinary. Or are they? I stare at this photo and see so many layers of beauty and miracle - the intense colors, the idea that they've been patiently waiting underground for just the right conditions to emerge, the surprising shadows on petals, the enticing stamen. And the bursts of hope that sprinkle our neighborhood.

crocuses coax smiles
from pale, winter-worn faces
harbingers of hope